Basil Chicken
A comforting slow cooker dish featuring tender chicken infused with basil and creamy celery flavors, complemented by sweet green peppers and onions, perfect for easy family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle with pepper and basil.
- Spread cream of celery soup on top of the chicken.
- Arrange slices of green pepper and onion on top of the soup.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and additional basil for 30 minutes before cooking. If you don't have cream of celery soup, cream of mushroom or chicken can be good substitutes. Adjust the amount of pepper and basil to suit your taste. This dish pairs well with rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Basil Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the dish well. For a comforting twist, pair it with breadsticks, making it reminiscent of American recipes like Millie'S Broccoli And Chicken Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish; cover and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basil Chicken contains roughly 209 calories, with 24g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. At about 209 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's best to thaw them first for even cooking. If using frozen, increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
What can I add to the slow cooker for more flavor?
You can add vegetables like carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. Additionally, a splash of white wine or chicken broth can enhance the sauce's richness. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also be sprinkled in during the last hour of cooking.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this dish?
For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or seitan. You can also use a variety of vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers, and replace the cream of celery soup with a plant-based cream or a homemade vegetable sauce.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).